Wolmer's parents say $5,000 Career Day price tag worth it
Published:Friday | April 27, 2018 | 12:00 AMJason Cross/Gleaner Writer
Parents of Wolmer's Boys' School third-form students, who accompanied their sons to Career Day at the Kingston-based institution yesterday, told The Gleaner that the $5,000 charged for the event was well worth it.
One disgruntled parent in February contacted the newspaper, complaining that the sum was too much for such an event. However, after experiencing Career Day for themselves, other parents disagree.
"I don't think it is expensive. Based on the handouts and the luncheon and everything, it is pretty fair," said parent Calvin Jackson.
For $5,000, the 210 third-form students were entitled to a catered lunch and an entire day of presentations, showing them how to choose the right subjects on their way to fifth form. They were given lessons on dining etiquette and other crucial lessons to take with them into their future professional lives. The cost also covered lunch for one parent.
In addition, parents and students selected the subjects to be pursued in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination.
"I don't have a problem with the $5,000," said a parent who didn't give her name. "I have a son going to Ardenne High and it is the same cost, and the parents don't have a problem with it. The only difference is that they keep it at a hotel [and] parents are not invited."
Third form coordinator Kirk Rochester said: "We have met our objective, which is to provide the young men with an authentic experience. We are exposing them and letting them know what is required to get into particular professions, [hence] choosing the right subjects".
Approximately 35 organisations, including the Jamaica Defence Force, Urban Development Corporation, and the University of the West Indies had booths that were visited by each student.
Former head boy Matthew Royal, who is currently in final year at the Norman Manley Law School, was guest speaker.